Vancouver
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Vancouver
Display all permits and licenses clearly while operating.
Ensure the truck is equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration.
Pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Clark County Public Health to ensure food safety and sanitation standards are met.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Vancouver.
Follow zoning regulations specific to Vancouver and avoid operating in restricted areas, such as near schools, parks, or busy intersections.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Vancouver
To operate a food truck in Vancouver, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Vancouver through their Economic Prosperity and Housing Department. The process involves submitting an application, completing a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), and passing an annual health inspection conducted by Clark County Public Health. Food trucks are required to use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. They must adhere to sanitation requirements like having a handwashing station, waste disposal, and refrigeration. Additionally, the trucks must comply with zoning laws that regulate where food trucks can operate within the city, especially avoiding high-traffic areas, schools, and parks. All necessary permits must be displayed on the truck.
Cost of Business Permit
$315
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Vancouver
Food trucks in Vancouver must pass an annual health inspection conducted by Clark County Public Health. Inspections include checks on food storage, refrigeration, cleanliness, and cooking equipment. Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification before applying for the permit. The truck must be equipped with a handwashing station, a waste disposal system, and refrigeration to ensure food safety. Food must be stored and prepared at a licensed commissary kitchen. Failure to meet health standards may result in fines or suspension of the operating permit.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Vancouver
Food trucks in Vancouver are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Special event permits or zoning restrictions may modify operating hours in certain areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Vancouver
Food trucks with cooking equipment, such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire inspection by the Vancouver Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers and comply with fire safety standards. If the truck uses certain cooking equipment, a fire suppression system may be required. A fire safety certificate may also be required to begin operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Vancouver
Zoning regulations in Vancouver may limit where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, parks, or busy intersections. Food trucks must adhere to citywide zoning ordinances.
Vendors must follow street parking regulations and may need to use designated vending areas.
Special events may require additional permits. Vendors wishing to participate in festivals, markets, or public gatherings must apply for temporary event permits, which may come with specific location requirements.
Food trucks are encouraged to check for any local restrictions in the Vancouver Municipal Code and the Washington State Food Code for detailed operational rules.
The information on this page is collected through collaboration with local food truck owners and occasional voluntary submissions from local government and health officials. Food Truck Profit is not a government agency and cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information. All food truck owners are strongly encouraged to consult directly with local government officials, including fire and health departments, to ensure compliance with all regulations. Food Truck Profit assumes no liability for errors or omissions in the content provided.